In the highly demanding world of aerospace engineering, material selection is not just a technical decision — it's a strategic imperative. Among the various high-performance alloys used in jet engine production, Inconel 718 stands out as a flagship material. Its unique combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and heat tolerance makes it indispensable in the fabrication of stamped components for jet engines.

Why Inconel 718 Is Critical in Jet Engine Design

Inconel 718 is a nickel-based superalloy developed by INCO in the 1960s and has since become one of the most utilized materials in aerospace manufacturing. Specifically engineered to retain its mechanical properties in extreme environments, Inconel 718 is especially effective in high-temperature, high-pressure environments—conditions typical of the jet engine core.

Its ability to maintain high tensile strength, fatigue resistance, and oxidation resistance at temperatures up to 700°C (1300°F) is the cornerstone of its aerospace utility. These characteristics allow OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to use it for critical engine components, including:

• Combustion chamber parts

• Turbine discs and casings

• Exhaust ducts

• Heat shields and nozzle guide vanes

• Stamped seals, brackets, and structural supports

Metallurgical Properties of Inconel 718

Inconel 718 is a precipitation-hardenable alloy primarily composed of nickel (50-55%), along with chromium, niobium, molybdenum, and iron. Its key strength lies in its gamma double prime (γ" – Ni₃Nb) precipitation strengthening mechanism, which imparts exceptional creep resistance even after prolonged exposure to high operating temperatures.

This robust property set makes Inconel 718 not only ideal for forged and cast parts, but also well-suited for precision metal stamping, especially when used in thin-gauge aerospace components.

Advantages of Stamping Inconel 718 for Jet Engine Components

While Inconel 718 is known for being challenging to machine or form, advancements in die design, heat treatment, and press control have made stamping processes more viable for thin-walled aerospace components.

Benefits of Stamping Over Machining

• Higher production efficiency for large volumes

• Greater material utilization (less waste)

• Enhanced dimensional consistency and repeatability

• Lower cost per unit for small-to-medium sized parts

Common Inconel 718 Stamped Parts in Jet Engines

• Thermal shields and exhaust segment liners

• Engine brackets and casing connectors

• Vibration isolation components

• Seal rings and flange covers

Stamped parts made from Inconel 718 can be formed using progressive or transfer die systems, depending on complexity. Manufacturers typically apply solution heat treatment and aging processes post-stamping to optimize mechanical properties.

Technical Challenges in Forming Inconel 718 – and How to Overcome Them

Inconel 718's work-hardening rate and low ductility at room temperature pose challenges during cold forming. However, with the right process controls, it is feasible to achieve high-quality, tight-tolerance stampings.

Key Considerations

• Pre-annealing at ~980–1020°C improves ductility before forming

• Slow deformation rate reduces cracking risk

• Use of carbide or ceramic tooling minimizes die wear

• Post-forming solution annealing + double aging ensures optimal properties

Surface Treatment and Coatings

To maintain corrosion and oxidation resistance, stamped parts may undergo surface treatments such as:

• Pickling or chemical descaling

• Shot peening to improve fatigue life

• Anti-galling coatings for assembly-critical components

Regulatory & Quality Considerations

Stamped Inconel 718 components used in aerospace must meet rigorous quality and traceability standards. OEMs typically require:

• AS9100 or ISO 9001 Certification

• NADCAP Accreditation for heat treating and nondestructive testing

• Material traceability with full Mill Test Reports (MTRs)

• Statistical Process Control (SPC) during production

Failure to comply with these standards could lead to disqualification from aerospace supply chains, making it essential to partner with an experienced and certified stamping provider.

FAQ

What makes Inconel 718 better than titanium in jet engine components?

While titanium alloys offer excellent strength-to-weight ratio, Inconel 718 performs better at sustained high temperatures and under cyclic thermal stress, which is critical in the engine's hot sections.

Can Inconel 718 be used for both cold and hot stamping?

Inconel 718 is typically cold-stamped in thin gauges with prior annealing. For thicker or more complex geometries, hot stamping or warm forming may be applied to prevent cracking and tool wear.

What industries beyond aerospace use stamped Inconel 718?

Besides aerospace, Inconel 718 is used in oil & gas, power generation, and space applications—anywhere high-temperature and corrosion-resistant properties are required.

Inconel 718 as a Strategic Material in Jet Engine Innovation

As jet engines become more efficient and compact, the demand for lightweight, high-strength materials grows. Inconel 718, though challenging to process, delivers unmatched performance under the most extreme conditions. When fabricated through optimized stamping techniques, it offers aerospace manufacturers a scalable solution for producing durable and complex engine parts at scale.

Are you sourcing high-performance stamped Inconel 718 components?  Contact us today to request technical specifications, tolerances, or custom quotes.